ALMOST nine out of 10 parents expect to help their children financially to achieve their career goals.

One in five plans to release equity from their homes to meet the costs, while 22 per cent are looking to give their offspring their inheritances early. However, nearly two-thirds will rely on their savings for the purpose.

A survey by Skipton Building Society found 20 per cent of parents would like their children to have a career in science or medicine, while 11 per cent hope they will go into education.

Nine per cent prefer the law or politics for their youngsters, while seven per cent hope they will opt for jobs in construction or trade.

A total of 17 per cent said they did not mind, as long as their children were happy.

Skipton's Jennifer Holloway said: "Any parent knows raising a child isn't cheap, but it's amazing that so many expect these costs to continue until a child has their feet firmly set on a career path.

"The fact that nearly two-thirds will use their savings to fund the cost of ambition shows how determined British parents are to do the best for their kids."